Question
My mother says you should not repot a plant when it has flowers on it and should wait until the flowers dry out, but my begonia is outgrowing its pot and it has beautiful orange flowers, what should I do? I cannot leave it in its small pot.  HELP

Answer
Hi Silvia,

I hate to takes sides in family disputes, but in this case I do agree with your mother.

When you disturb roots, it often interferes with flowering, causing buds to drop off rather than open up. In addition, most flowering plants must be quite potbound before they will set buds.

You can leave your Begonia in its small pot as long as you water frequently enough to keep the soil moist. Water daily, if necessary. It makes no difference how crowded the roots are.

Obviously it is doing very well in its small pot, so don't mess with success.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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